If looking for a 2.5TD I would avoid automatic gearboxes and hold out for a manual. As said, the auto boxes are too weak to stand chipping and, TBH, are marginal when the engine is not chipped so one with the sort of mileage that's likely these days will have a tired gearbox anyway.
Other than that, they are chain driven but that doesn't mean they take previous neglect well. They have a short service interval of only 4500 miles and need oil changes at this interval to survive, so avoid anything that has not been treated well in this respect. Cooling problems are often the first symptom of neglect so avoid anything that is running hot or shows evidence of boiling over, or poor coolant servicing.
This engine was superseded by the 2.2DTi. Less refined, being a 4 pot, and not as quick. Only available in manual but you will be able to find newer examples of these.
I too think it'd be unlikely to be worth over £1k unless exceptional, but I must admit I don't follow the values of the TDs that closely, and if it's from a dealer and in good condition, I suppose that's what you'd expect to be paying once he's made his money on it.
The other thing to bear in mind is that the Omega diesels are all relatively aged engine designs. They will be better on fuel than their petrol counterparts but nowhere near the economy and performance that a more modern diesel can deliver. I'm guessing a little here but I would be surprised if a 2.5TD would deliver much better than 30MPG around town and low 40's on a run.
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Topic: What to look for with Diesels? (Read 1216 times)